Discover one of the Peak District’s best hidden historic sites on a beautiful walk through the Upper Dove Valley. Moderate

About this walk

This peaceful circular walk explores the beautiful Upper Dove Valley, combining rolling countryside, quiet paths and one of the Peak District’s lesser-known Norman sites.

Our main historical stop is Pilsbury Castle, the remains of an impressive Norman motte-and-bailey castle. Although little more than grassy earthworks survive today, the site was once a substantial fortification overlooking the River Dove. We’ll explore what remains and uncover the story of the castle, its possible links to the powerful de Ferrers family, and why this quiet valley was once important enough to defend.

From here, we’ll continue through the surrounding countryside and climb onto Sheen Hill, enjoying wonderful views across the Upper Dove Valley and towards the surrounding hills.

We’ll walk at a relaxed, sociable pace with plenty of time to stop for views, history and the little details we discover along the way. Expect peaceful countryside, ancient earthworks, rolling hills and a wonderfully quiet corner of the Peak District.

Distance: 10.1 km / 6.3 miles

Ascent: 282 m / 925 ft

Level of difficulty: Moderate – includes several climbs and descents, uneven field paths and rougher countryside terrain. A reasonable level of hill fitness is required.

Who will be your guide?

I’m Emily, founder of Peak Outdoor Community, and I’m a Mountain Leader based in Glossop at the edge of the Dark Peak. I’ve always been outdoorsy since being a young girl but hiking became a real obsession in 2019 when I started to go solo. I aim to inspire other women to learn the many benefits of exploring in the outdoors and I’m passionate about sharing my love for adventure with you!

Feel free to check out the website: Peak Outdoor Community and follow us on Instagram and Facebook: @peakoutdoorcommunity

Meeting Information

Meeting Point: free village centre parking, Church St, Hartington, Buxton SK17 0AL Google Maps.

We will meet at 9.45 am to leave at 10am.

Car sharing from Glossop can often be arranged—please get in touch if you'd like adding to the group chat.

What to bring:

Hiking boots or shoes with good grip

Snacks/lunch to sustain you for up to 3.5 hours

Rucksack

Water (at least 1L)

Waterproofs

Warm layers

Sun hat/sun cream

Hat and gloves

A small first aid kit with any personal medications

Walking poles, sit mat, hot drink (optional extras)

Terrain:

A mixture of grassy field paths, farm tracks, quiet lanes and uneven countryside paths, with some steeper sections around Pilsbury Castle and Sheen Hill. The ground can become muddy and slippery after wet weather, and there are several stiles and livestock fields along the route. Walking boots with good grip are strongly recommended.

Toilets:

There are toilets in the village that we will use before we set off.

Safety:

The aim of every Peak Outdoor Community walk is to create a welcoming, relaxed and enjoyable experience. We walk at a comfortable pace with plenty of opportunities to stop, chat, take photographs and learn about the landscape.

As with all outdoor activities, there are inherent risks. Participants are responsible for ensuring they are fit enough for the walk and should let us know about any relevant medical conditions before attending.

All participants must complete a Medical & Disclaimer Form at least 24 hours before the event.

All walks are led by qualified Mountain Leaders with Outdoor First Aid qualifications.

Dogs:

Well-behaved dogs are welcome provided they remain on a lead throughout the walk.

Refund Policy*:

Refunds are only available if Peak Outdoor Community cancels the event.

If you can no longer attend, you're welcome to transfer your ticket to someone else—please let us know beforehand.

Tickets cannot be transferred to another event unless this has been arranged.

And FINALLY:

Our walks go ahead in all seasons because some of the best adventures happen when we embrace the British weather!

In the event that the hike needs to be postponed for safety reasons (weather warnings, moor fires, etc), and you can't make the new date, you will be offered a voucher to use on a future event.

Please see our website for our full Terms & Conditions.

Description supplied by the event organiser.